Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor, but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The smoked sausage brings rich flavor, while the BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness that’s perfectly balanced with the spices. The addition of bell peppers and onions makes it even more delicious, and the one-pan nature makes it an ideal solution for busy evenings.
What makes this recipe stand out is how flexible it is. You can easily swap the sausage for chicken or shrimp, so you can enjoy a different version of this tasty meal anytime. It’s simple, tasty, and super satisfying!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite!)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup bell peppers (diced)
- ½ cup onion (diced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir the cooked sausage back into the pan, letting it heat through. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Swap the Sausage: If you’re not a fan of sausage, feel free to substitute it with shredded chicken, ground turkey, or shrimp.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in additional veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a little heat.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based sausage alternative and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegan option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and add a bit more liquid.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and let it cool completely before freezing.
What other types of sausage can I use?
You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even kielbasa.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this is designed as a one-pan stovetop dish, you can adapt it to a slow cooker by sautéing the sausage and vegetables first and then adding the rice and liquid to cook on low for about 2 hours.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to bring a spicy kick to the dish.
What sides go well with this dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can pair it with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or some crusty bread.
Can I use a different type of sauce besides BBQ?
Absolutely! You can experiment with teriyaki sauce, hot sauce, or even a tangy mustard-based sauce to change up the flavors.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or even water if you’re in a pinch.
Conclusion
One-Pan Sweet & Tangy BBQ Sausage Rice is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a lot of cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for the whole family, this dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can customize it with different proteins or veggies. Try it out today for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple!
